In this talk, we will present our latest progress on the multiphysics modeling of Li dendrite growth in all-solid-state batteries and provide understanding of the fundamental mechanism.

First, materials characterization techniques (SEM-EDS, XRD) were used to explore the effect ultrafast laser ablation had on the electrode materials’ morphology and structure. Next, the improvements in the patterned electrodes’ electrochemical cycling performances and degrees of wetting will be compared to a pristine baseline case. Finally, the correlation between experimentally obtained data and model predictions will be presented and discussed.

Enovix is the leader in advanced silicon-anode lithium-ion battery development and production. This presentation will describe the company's 3D cell architecture which enables the use of an anode that is 100% active silicon anode and mitigates the traditional problems experienced with silicon in lithium-ion batteries: volume expansion, formation lithium loss, and break-up of silicon during cycling leading to poor cycle life.

This presentation provides the new zinc anode which can dissolve the major zinc problem on cyclability in secondary uses and make it possible to recharge for 5,000 cycles or more without voltage and capacity degradation. The technology is valuable to promote high-performance aqueous zinc rechargeable battery, which is appropriate for electrification of vehicles and stationary energy storage with nonflammability and 100% zinc recycling for low carbon and sustainability.

Silicon and lithium metal anodes have higher specific capacities than graphite. However, silicon and lithium anodes have safety anxieties arising from continuous volume expansions creating pressure on battery cells, hence modules and packs. These occur throughout the life of the battery posing unpredictable safety challenges to electric vehicle manufacturers causing expensive vehicle crash safety designs. The objective is to present a substitute high-capacity iron oxide anode with predictable safer profile.

Nanosized materials offer benefits as cathode materials since short diffusion lengths and high stress resistance promise improved rate capability and extended cycle capability. However, inefficient particle packaging and increased additive demand complicate electrode processing and limit achievable energy density. In an alternative approach, nanoparticles are aggregated to hierarchically-structured microparticles with open porosity, combining the advantages of the nano and the micro world for battery electrodes. 

LiFePO4 (LFP) is a popular cathode material because of its low environmental footprint, intrinsic safety, high power capabilities, and potential for a low cost. We proposed an easily scalable synthesis method; it improves electrochemical proprieties and has a low environmental impact and cost. Chilwee produces LFP batteries for e-bikes. In 2021, Chilwee Group achieved a gross sales of 1.6 billion dollars, and its overall strength will be ranked first among the top 10 battery manufacturers in China.

The battery community knows the important roles of binder and CB practically without detailed science. X-ray chemical imaging of active and passive components within porous composite Li-ion battery offers an unique avenue to better understand complicated multilength scale performance and degradation heterogeneities. Post-modem examinations along with operando dynamic studies of single particle behavior in practical electrodes will benefit battery material synthesis, surface modification and electrode optimization.

Lithium metal as the anode electrode is very promising for next-generation energy storage technologies. However, Li dendrite formation and growth is usually the critical limiting factor. In this work, we explore composite polymer-inorganic binder-filler membranes for lithium-based batteries. Two different ceramic compounds with NASICON-type (NASICON: sodium (Na) superionic conductor) crystal structure, Li1.3Al0.3Ti1.7(PO4)3 (LATP) and Li1.4Al0.4Ge0.2Ti1.4(PO4)3 (LAGTP), each blended with a polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) polymeric matrix were considered. We characterize the physicochemical and electrochemical properties of the synthesized membranes as a function of processing conditions and formulation using a range of microscopic and electrochemical techniques. Importantly, the electrochemical stability window of the as-prepared membranes lies between 2.2–4.5 V vs Li/Li+. We then integrate select composite membranes and perform operando electrochemical analysis.

Due to uncontrollable latent defects or accidental damage, today's batteries are potentially unsafe. Soteria is dedicated to solutions for the root cause of battery safety events with patented technology that neutralizes the spark inside a battery, enabling cells to continue functioning after damage. In this presentation, Soteria will demonstrate how innovative inactive materials can reduce the risk of thermal propagation in batteries incorporated in various applications.

In all-solid-state batteries the electrolyte is non-flammable and ultimately thin, making them safer and more compact. Yet, the multiple internal interfaces in their layered structure give rise to high impedances, limiting their performance. Here, we employ operando Kelvin Probe Force Microscopy (KPFM) to quantitatively measure the potential distribution in a solid-state Li-ion battery as a function of its state of charge and reveal the interface responsible for the capacity loss. The study is supplemented with neutron depth profiling of lithium distribution and first principles calculations shedding light onto the interfacial Li-ion transport in the battery and its reversibility.

Solid-state batteries are one of the most promising directions for safely adopting lithium metal anodes. However, problems in charge rates and cycle lifetimes have inhibited commercialization. Adden Energy is developing a solid-state battery platform that aims at safely adopting lithium metal and high voltage cathodes with simultaneous fast charging and high cycle lifetime. Material design principles will be discussed that were obtained through integrating ab-initio computation, machine learning, and experiment.

Beginning with a broad overview of solid-state battery technology, this talk will offer an update on the latest technical and commercial developments in this field. Particular focus will be given to emerging IP and safety issues and their interrelation. It will conclude by projecting the likely timeline for the emergence of solid-state batteries in mainstream markets and suggesting possible opportunities for accelerating the transition.